Religious life
The primary religion in Moldova is Eastern Orthodox Christianity. Most towns and villages have at least one Orthodox church. Grozești has a small , yet lovely, Romanian Orthodox Church. Religion is an important part of life for many in the village, but by all means not for all. Some observe "post" which can last as long as 8 weeks where no animal products are eaten (an observance similar to Lent).
At every well you will find a religious shrine to encourage
travellers to give thanks for the water God has provided
for them. The shrines typically depict Jesus on the cross
and are made of carved wood and snipped tin with hand
painted scenes.
In the church cemetery you will find tables and benches
placed at a loved one's grave. It is a common
practice to share a meal at the cemetery in memory
and celebration of the departed.
There is a special celebration observed in early September called "drumul crucei".
Participants walk from village to village circling Moldova stopping at churches for
food, rest, and to hear god's word. As the travellers and priests approach a town, bells
are rung and the people in the village kneel in the street in order to be
blessed by the cross as it passes over them. They then join in the procession to the church.